Unveiling Jamaica's Narrative Tapestry: An Interview with Debra Ehrhardt
In the heart of Kingston, Jamaica, storytelling takes center stage as Debra Ehrhardt, acclaimed for her award-winning, one-woman play, "Jamaica Farewell," prepares to host the finals of the third Annual Storytelling Competition, 'What’s Your Story, Jamaica?' at the University of Technology on February 11, 2024, co-produced with Dr. Basil Kong. With approximately JA$1 million in cumulative prize money up for grabs, the competition promises an engaging showcase of Jamaican narratives. Dr. Glen Laman, Resource Director of the Jamaican Museum and Cultural Center, recently spoke with Ehrhardt for a brief interview to delve into her experiences with the competition and the art of storytelling.
Dr. Glen Laman: This is the third year of the competition. What has the experience been like so far?
Debra Ehrhardt: The experience has been challenging, eye-opening, enjoyable, and very satisfying. I have to devote the time to find the Jamaicans who are willing to share their personal stories, and that can be difficult because in our culture, we are more willing to tell other people's stories! Overall, it has been amazing to work with people who have stories that entertain us and can touch us on every level. Every year it seems to be getting better and better, and this year we have so many talented storytellers who are excited to share their wonderful stories.
Dr. Glen Laman: I know you have a selection process; how does that work and what do you look for in a story?
Debra Ehrhardt: I read every submission that comes in. I look for stories that have a beginning, a middle, and an end. Stories that have a message and make us think or are extremely humorous will all get into the semi-finals. From there, we look for the best tellers on stage because storytelling is an art, and a great performance of your story increases your chances to get closer to the prizes.
Dr. Glen Laman: Where did you get the idea of doing a storytelling competition?
Debra Ehrhardt: It started with my own storytelling. Once I became a storyteller myself, I recognized that other people have stories they wanted to tell. After winning a cash prize in a storytelling competition in California, I decided to go back to my country and provide the same opportunity for Jamaican storytellers.
Dr. Glen Laman: I like the fact that you also offer cash prizes; what was the impetus for that?
Debra Ehrhardt: I recognized that it would be a real benefit to a greater number of people by offering a cash prize and would motivate more Jamaicans to enter.
Dr. Glen Laman: What advice do you have for aspiring storytellers?
“Own your stories and keep developing them. Be open to constructive criticism and take every opportunity to share your stories.”
Debra Ehrhardt: Own your stories and keep developing them. Be open to constructive criticism and take every opportunity to share your stories.
As the anticipation builds for the 'What’s Your Story, Jamaica?' competition, Debra Ehrhardt's commitment to nurturing Jamaican storytelling talent and preserving the rich tapestry of the nation's narratives shines through. The event promises not only to be a celebration of stories but a testament to the power of storytelling in connecting communities and preserving cultural heritage.
Debra Ehrhardt's is best known for her award winning one woman play, “Jamaica Farewell,” and has several other plays including, “Mango Mango,” “Invisible Chairs,” “Cock Tales,” and her two-person hit, “Look What Fell Out De Mango Tree.” You can learn more about her award-winning play, visit JamaicaFarewellThePlay.com.
Participants at the 2023 What’s Your Story, Jamaica? Competition
Debra Ehrhardt in the Jamaica Farwell Play
Debra Ehrhardt with 2023 storytelling winner, King Nyah